Tourism industry and bird flu
There are no restrictions on travel or tourism operations due to H5 bird flu.
Preparing for H5 bird flu helps support a strong and resilient tourism industry. This advice provides information for tourism operators and travellers on how to be prepared and stay informed.
On this page
Tourism operators
H5 bird flu is a nationally notifiable animal disease. If you suspect an animal may be infected, you have a legal responsibility to report it as soon as possible.
If you find sick or dead wildlife
- Avoid touching sick or dead birds or wildlife.
- Record what you see, including species, location and number of animals affected.
- Report sick or dead birds or wildlife to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Reports to the EAD hotline are assessed according to the risk of H5 bird flu. This may lead to a site visit and sampling. Not all reports will require testing or collection of birds. Don’t expect a follow-up call unless more information is required.
Find out more about the EAD hotline.
Impacts on tourism activities
Tourism operators and visitors can continue to enjoy Queensland's tourism experiences as normal.
In the unlikely event that restrictions are required to protect public safety or support operational response, these temporary measures will be carefully targeted to affected areas (e.g. walking tracks, camping grounds or picnic areas) and informed by local conditions and risk assessments.
Closing national parks and other protected areas is unlikely at this stage.
In the unlikely event of a closure, affected permit holders and operators will be advised directly. Signs will also be placed in closed/restricted areas.
When entering and leaving national parks, nature reserves or farms, clean your shoes, clothing and vehicle to help prevent spreading diseases between places.
Wild bird feeding
We encourage you to adopt and continue strong biosecurity measures and good hygiene practices around your bird-related activities.
The Australian Centre for Disease Control has a toolkit for people who work with birds.
Agritourism operators
Protect animals on your farm by reducing contact between poultry and wild birds.
Read:
- advice for backyard bird owners (also applies to mixed-use agriculture agritourism businesses)
- advice for bird owners and bird flu resources from the Australian Government.
Travellers
Human infection with H5 bird flu is rare as it does not spread easily from animals to people, but severe illness can occur. Avoid contact with sick or dead birds and animals. Most human cases of bird flu have involved close contact with infected animals.
Visit Queensland Health for further information.
Visiting bird sanctuaries and reserves
It is safe to visit bird sanctuaries and reserves. Watching birds and enjoying nature is safe. Keep to paths and follow signs and information to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Wild bird feeding
Visitors are advised against feeding wild birds, because it can encourage close contact between birds and increase the likelihood of diseases being spread.